Twiggy, the English fashion icon who revolutionized the modeling industry in the 1960s with her distinctive look, remains a symbol of elegance and grace as she enters her 70s. Born Lesley Hornby on September 19, 1949, Twiggy became the face of an entire generation, embodying the youthful, mod style that defined the swinging ’60s. Today, fans continue to marvel at how she maintains her signature charm and timeless beauty, proving that true fashion never fades with age.
A Fashion Icon of the 1960s
Twiggy burst onto the scene in the 1960s, captivating the world with her slim figure, pixie haircut, and striking doe eyes. She quickly became a symbol of the decade’s youth culture, redefining beauty standards and setting the stage for future generations of models. Discovered as a teenager, Twiggy was different from the curvy models of the time. Her boyish frame and androgynous look challenged traditional notions of femininity, making her a trailblazer in the fashion world.
Her influence wasn’t limited to just modeling; Twiggy’s unique style came to represent a larger cultural shift in how women dressed and presented themselves. She wasn’t just a supermodel; she was a phenomenon.
1970s: Expanding Beyond the Catwalk
As Twiggy moved into the 1970s, she didn’t slow down. She transitioned from modeling to acting and singing, proving that her talents extended far beyond the runway. She embraced the laid-back styles of the ’70s while maintaining the edge that had made her a fashion icon. Her look softened during this decade, reflecting the era’s natural, carefree vibe.
During this time, Twiggy also took on personal milestones. In 1977, she married American actor Michael Whitney and welcomed a daughter. Sadly, her husband passed away suddenly in 1983, a tragedy that deeply affected her while she was performing in the hit musical “My One and Only.”
The 1980s: A Shift Toward Sophistication
In the 1980s, Twiggy’s style matured, evolving into a more classic and sophisticated look. While still a staple in the fashion world, she also balanced family life and her career. She shifted away from the mod look of her youth, embracing the more structured and tailored styles of the decade, proving once again that she could adapt to any trend without losing her unique flair.
Despite personal hardships, Twiggy remained a fixture in both the fashion and entertainment industries, further solidifying her legacy as a cultural icon.
1990s: Effortless Cool in a Grunge Era
By the 1990s, Twiggy had already cemented her place in fashion history, but she continued to stay relevant by effortlessly embracing the minimalist and grunge trends of the decade. Whether donning high-waisted jeans or plaid shirts, Twiggy’s style adapted to the times while maintaining her timeless edge. Her versatility was on full display, as she could just as easily rock a casual, laid-back look as she could a glamorous red-carpet ensemble.
Twiggy’s ability to seamlessly transition through decades while keeping her style fresh yet authentic was a testament to her enduring appeal.
The 2000s: Reinvention in the New Millennium
In the 2000s, Twiggy embraced modern fashion trends while keeping her iconic image intact. She frequently wore sleek silhouettes and statement accessories, merging contemporary styles with nods to her legendary past. Not one to fade into the background, Twiggy remained in the public eye, serving as a judge alongside Tyra Banks on America’s Next Top Model, where she mentored a new generation of models with her wisdom and charm.
Her presence on television highlighted not only her lasting influence but also her ability to reinvent herself and stay current in the ever-changing fashion world.
The 2010s: Timeless Elegance in Her 60s
Entering her 60s, Twiggy’s style evolved into one of timeless elegance. She gravitated toward tailored, sophisticated outfits, reflecting her maturity while still exuding the playful spirit that had made her famous. She often paired chic blazers with refined accessories, demonstrating that true style isn’t about age but attitude.
In 2019, Twiggy received the Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire award for her contributions to fashion, the arts, and charity work. This honor further cemented her place not only as a fashion icon but also as a beloved cultural figure.
The 2020s: Aging Gracefully and Embracing Natural Beauty
Now in her 70s, Twiggy continues to inspire fans with her graceful approach to aging. She remains as elegant as ever, favoring comfortable yet stylish outfits that reflect her age without compromising on fashion. Her iconic short hair is still part of her signature look, and her makeup is soft and natural, highlighting her ageless beauty.
Twiggy has always been candid about her decision to age naturally. She has avoided cosmetic procedures like Botox, choosing instead to embrace the aging process with confidence. In 2016, she remarked, “I haven’t had plastic surgery but, if I ever felt the need, I would find a very, very good surgeon. I would never use Botox because, in my mind, it’s poison.”
Twiggy’s natural approach to beauty is refreshing in an industry that often prioritizes youth. Her commitment to authenticity continues to set her apart, and fans admire her for staying true to herself.
A Lifetime of Influence and Style
Twiggy’s journey from a teenage sensation in the 1960s to an elegant fashion icon in her 70s is nothing short of remarkable. She has navigated the ever-changing fashion landscape with grace, continuously adapting her style while remaining true to her unique identity.
Her influence spans generations, with younger audiences discovering her through projects like the Netflix series Inventing Anna or her various television appearances. Twiggy’s ability to stay relevant while aging gracefully is a testament to her enduring charm and timeless appeal.
As she continues to inspire with her approach to fashion, beauty, and life, Twiggy remains a shining example that style truly has no age limit. From her bold and youthful looks in the ’60s to her current elegant and chic style, she proves that fashion is about celebrating who you are at every stage of life.
Twiggy, the original supermodel, shows that true elegance and style never fade, only evolve.
